Seed can be saved from many trees, shrubs, perennials, aquatic plants, alpines, annuals, biennials, bulbous plants, ornamental grasses vegetables and herbs.

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When to collect and store seed

Harvest your own seed is fun but takes a little understanding and planning:

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  • Seedheads can ripen quickly, and must be watched carefully in order to collect the seed before they are dispersed
  • As a rough guide, seed is set about two months after flowering
  • Some seed is collected when well-developed but immature and green, such as Anemone nemorosa, calendula and Ranunculus
  • Berries need to be collected before they are taken by birds
  • The plants from which you collect seed must be healthy and vigorous. This will help ensure good quality seedlings and plants
  • Usually only species “come true” from seed – seedlings from a hybrid will be extremely variable
  • Most seed germinates best if sown as soon as it ripens, whereas seed harvested while immature will not germinate

When to collect and store seed

Harvest your own seed is fun but takes a little understanding and planning:
  • Seedheads can ripen quickly, and must be watched carefully in order to collect the seed before they are dispersed
  • As a rough guide, seed is set about two months after flowering
  • Some seed is collected when well-developed but immature and green, such as Anemone nemorosa, calendula and Ranunculus
  • Berries need to be collected before they are taken by birds
  • The plants from which you collect seed must be healthy and vigorous. This will help ensure good quality seedlings and plants
  • Usually only species “come true” from seed – seedlings from a hybrid will be extremely variable
  • Most seed germinates best if sown as soon as it ripens, whereas seed harvested while immature will not germinate
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